Guest Column: Suicide stigma, be gone

The American Heritage Dictionary defines stigma as "a mark or token of shame or disgrace." Then there is stigmatism, "to characterize or brand as disgraceful or ignominious (dishonor, humiliating)."

Looking at this definition of stigma, it is no wonder why people do not want to talk about "suicide."

As a parent who lost my youngest son, Jason, to suicide at the age of 17, I have had to overcome and bury the stigma of suicide in order to survive and go on to help others with all of my heart and soul.

There are other reasons why someone may choose not to talk about suicide. One of those being, if you talk about suicide, it will cause or put the idea into someone's thoughts. The fact is, they have already made up their mind that suicide is the way out. Talking about suicide actually can deter and help prevent suicide, along with proper treatment and yes, sometimes medications. Just know talking about suicide does not cause suicide.

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"Social stigma and prejudice are our enemies, being taught from early childhood that suicidal people are shameful, sinful, weak, selfish, manipulative," says David L. Conroy, Ph.D.

I have researched and learned the real facts of why someone commits suicide. When the pain becomes more than one's coping skills can handle, suicide seems like the only way out of the pain. Overcoming the stigma of talking about suicide and being open to awareness and education to prevent suicide is a hurdle that all suicide prevention programs battle every day. Stigma has been identified as the most formidable obstacle to future progress in the area of mental health. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - 1999).

The National Strategy for Suicide Prevention: Goals and Objectives have been developed by "A Call to Action" by our own Surgeon General, David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D.

"Reducing stigma related to mental illness and substance abuse will increase the number of persons from all groups who receive appropriate treatment for mental disorders associated with suicide." Depression, along with the use of alcohol and illegal drugs, claims 60 to 90 percent of lives to suicide. Many turn to alcohol and drugs thinking it will help but, in fact, it only compounds the problem.

Just think, over 95 percent of suicides in our nation can be prevented with early intervention and treatment. Will you please open your hearts and minds and help? It is because I care and have learned to overcome my fear of stigma that I can help others from going through the horrific pain of losing a loved one to suicide.

Suicide is the third-largest cause of death in our nation from the latest statistics (1999-2000, Centers for Disease Control). It does not matter what color, age, religion or economic status you may be, suicide can happen to anyone.

There is, as you can see, much, much more work to be done. Stigma be gone and lives, many lives, can be saved. God bless each and every one of you. If I touch one life, it is worth it all.

If you want to learn more relating to stigma, just type the words stigma and suicide into your search engine. There are too many sites for me to list at this writing. If you are contemplating suicide, or suspect that a loved one may be, call your local crisis line at 800-442-7315.

- Linda Hoffman is a survivor of suicide and founder of the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Chapter here. You may call her at 231-584-3503.